Use of activated pectin-containing citrus fiber and resulting products

Abstract

Use of an activated pectin-containing citrus fiber for the manufacture of a product selected from the group comprising consumer goods, pet supplies, hygiene articles, cleaning agents, coating agents, explosives, lubricants, coolants, plastic products, textiles, artificial leather, varnish, ink, paint, building material, composite material, paper, cardboard, adhesive, fertilizer, battery, characterized in that the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber has a water-soluble pectin content of less than 10 wt.% and a yield stress I (rotation) in a 2.5 wt.% fiber dispersion in demineralized water of more than 5.5 Pa.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to the use of an activated pectin-containing citrus fiber for the production of products in the food or non-food sector. The invention also relates to products containing the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber. Background of the invention

[0002] Dietary fiber is a largely indigestible food component, usually carbohydrates, found primarily in plant-based foods. For simplicity, dietary fiber is divided into water-soluble fiber, such as pectin, and water-insoluble fiber, such as cellulose. Dietary fiber is considered an important component of the human diet.

[0003] The consumption of dietary fiber is considered beneficial to health. The use of fruit fibers, such as sugar beet, apple, or citrus fibers, as dietary fiber in food production is becoming increasingly important. One reason for this is the fact that fruit fibers represent a mixture of insoluble fibers such as cellulose and soluble fibers such as pectin, thus providing an ideal spectrum of health-promoting effects. The use of fruit fibers such as citrus or apple fibers can alter the functional properties of food products. Fruit fibers are now also used in non-food products.

[0004] For example, US Pat. No. 5,964,983 teaches the use of microfibrillar cellulose produced from sugar beets as a thickener for paints or drilling fluids. However, the process disclosed in US Pat. No. 5,964,983 is very complex because it involves an acidic / alkaline extraction followed by an aqueous washing step, pressure homogenization, an ethanolic washing step, and drying. Furthermore, it has been shown that the fiber properties vary significantly depending on the manufacturing process, thus determining its suitability for optimizing food or non-food products.

[0005] DE 41 33 920 C1 concerns the production of low-protein, pectin-rich, cell-structured materials and describes apples, pears, white cabbage, kohlrabi, cauliflower, celery, and carrots as raw materials (see column 5, lines 4-9). According to column 3, lines 40 to 47, incubation in a weakly alkaline solution between 8.0 and 9.5 °C at temperatures below 60°C is recommended to remove the plant proteins. The basic production process, according to column 5, lines 31 to 44, thus includes an alkaline protein extraction step, blanching, pectin deesterification under alkaline conditions, acid washing to remove ash, acid-free washing, an initial drying step with suitable organic solvents, and a gentle final thermal drying step. With its seven process steps, this is a complex process that also results in fruit fibers containing deesterified pectin.

[0006] EP 3 466 983 A1 relates to a process for producing an activated pectin-containing biomass composition from a pectin-containing starting biomass material, such as citrus peels, an activated pectin-containing biomass composition, and a product comprising such an activated pectin-containing biomass composition (see paragraph

[0010] ). The process comprises the formation of activated pectin-containing biomass by adding an acidic activation solution to the biomass material and heating it to a temperature ≥ 40 °C. The activated pectin-containing biomass can only be obtained by applying mechanical energy (paragraph

[0011] ).

[0007] WO 2006 / 033 697 A1 relates to a process for cleaning citrus fibers in citrus vesicles, wherein the vesicles washed with organic solvents are desolventized and dried citrus fibers are obtained therefrom.

[0008] WO 2017 / 019 752 A1 relates to a process for producing citrus fiber from citrus pulp. The process includes a homogenization step (a), followed by a precipitation step (b) with an organic solvent to obtain a granular precipitate, a separation step (c) to obtain a semi-dry fiber cake, a comminution of the fibers and admixing of an additive in step (d), and a final step (e) for solvent removal and drying (see claim 9,

[00081] ,

[00085] ,

[00087] ,

[00088] ,

[00091] , and

[00092] ). Due to the necessary homogenization, which is preferably a high-pressure homogenization (

[00083] ), the special alcohol precipitation step and the grinding with additive addition, a complex manufacturing process is required in order to obtain fibers with good dispersibility under low shear effect (see

[0008] ).

[0009] CN 1 09 832 632 A relates to an industrial production process for highly dispersible citrus fibres, whereby citrus peels are degraded, dispersed and dehydrated by alcohol dehydration under high temperature and alkaline treatment.

[0010] The prior art also includes the documents DE 20 2013 012 659 U1, DE 199 43 188 A1 and DE 10 2020 122 518 A1.

[0011] There is therefore a need for improved pectin-containing fruit fibers and the resulting new or improved uses.

[0012] The present invention is based on the object of improving the state of the art or offering an alternative to it. Summary of the invention

[0013] According to a first aspect of the present invention, the stated object is achieved by the use of an activated pectin-containing citrus fiber for producing a product selected from the group comprising consumer goods, pet supplies, hygiene articles, cleaning agents, coating agents, explosives, lubricants, coolants, plastic products, textiles, artificial leather, varnish, ink, paints, building materials, composite materials, paper, cardboard, adhesives, fertilizers, batteries, wherein the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber has a water-soluble pectin content of less than 10 wt.% and a yield point (rotation) in a 2.5 wt.% fiber dispersion in demineralized water of more than 5.5 Pa.

[0014] The activated pectin-containing citrus fiber preferably has a content of less than 8 wt% and more preferably less than 6 wt%. The water-soluble pectin content of this citrus fiber can be, for example, 2 wt%, 3 wt%, 4 wt%, 5 wt%, 6 wt%, 7 wt%, 8 wt%, or 9 wt%.

[0015] The manufacturing process described below results in citrus fibers with a large internal surface area, which also increases the water binding capacity and is accompanied by good viscosity formation.

[0016] These fibers are activated fibers that have sufficient strength in an aqueous suspension so that no additional shear forces are required in the application to obtain the optimal rheological properties such as viscosity or texturing.

[0017] As the inventors have discovered, the citrus fibers produced by the process described below exhibit good rheological properties. The fibers according to the invention can be easily rehydrated, and the advantageous rheological properties are retained even after rehydration.

[0018] The activated pectin-containing citrus fiber used in the invention is typically obtained from residues from the processing of citrus fruits, such as citrus pomace. This is available in sufficient quantities and offers a sustainable and ecologically sound source for the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber used in the invention. The invention in detail

[0019] In a second aspect, the invention relates to the use of an activated pectin-containing citrus fiber in the construction sector, in borehole mining and in the agricultural sector, characterized in that the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber has a water-soluble pectin content of less than 10% by weight.

[0020] In the uses taught above, the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber used according to the invention can have one or more of the following functions: foaming agent, whipping agent, separating agent, flow agent, stabilizer, emulsifier, carrier, filler, texturizer, thickener, gelling agent, firming agent, reinforcing agent, humectant, filter aid, coating agent,

[0021] The invention relates to the use of an activated pectin-containing citrus fiber. Such an activated pectin-containing citrus fiber can be obtained from citrus pomace, which is digested by incubating an aqueous citrus pomace suspension as the starting material. The digestion in an acidic environment alters the citrus parenchyma material present in the pomace in several respects. Thus, the acidic digestion serves to remove pectin by converting the protopectin into soluble pectin and simultaneously activates the fiber by increasing its internal surface area. Furthermore, the digestion thermally comminutes the starting material. Through the acidic incubation in the aqueous environment under the influence of heat, it decomposes into citrus fibers. This achieves thermal comminution, thus eliminating the need for a mechanical comminution step in the production process.This represents a decisive advantage over conventional fiber manufacturing processes, which, in contrast, require a shearing step (such as (high) pressure homogenization) to obtain a fiber with sufficient rheological properties.

[0022] The activated pectin-containing citrus fiber used in the invention contains not only insoluble fiber-bound pectin (also known as protopectin), but also water-soluble pectin. Protopectins are insoluble pectins and presumably not pure homoglycans.

[0023] In protopectin, the polygalacturonic acid chains are linked to each other by complexes with divalent cations, via ferulic acid groups and borate complexes, and via glycosidic bonds with neutral sugar side chains, which may consist of arabinose, galactose, xylose, mannose, and traces of fucose. Since citrus fiber, as previously stated, also contains water-soluble pectin, it is also referred to as "pectin-containing citrus fiber" in the context of the invention. The activated pectin-containing citrus fiber

[0024] According to the invention, an activated pectin-containing citrus fiber is used. Acidic digestion as a step in the manufacturing process allows the fiber structure to be broken down, and subsequent alcoholic washing steps with gentle drying allow this structure to be maintained.

[0025] Due to the acidic extraction step, the pectin content of the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber is greatly reduced, so that this citrus fiber has less than 10 wt%, preferably less than 8 wt%, and particularly preferably less than 6 wt% of water-soluble pectin. The water-soluble pectin content in this citrus fiber can be, for example, 2 wt%, 3 wt%, 4 wt%, 5 wt%, 6 wt%, 7 wt%, 8 wt%, or 9 wt%.

[0026] This residual water-soluble pectin is a highly esterified pectin. According to the invention, a highly esterified pectin is defined as a pectin with a degree of esterification of more than 50%. The degree of esterification describes the percentage of carboxyl groups in the galacturonic acid units of the pectin that are present in esterified form, e.g., as methyl esters. The degree of esterification can be determined using the JECFA method (Monograph 19-2016, Joint FAO / WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives).

[0027] According to an advantageous embodiment, the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber has a strength of at least 150 g, particularly advantageously of at least 220 g, in a 4 wt% aqueous suspension.

[0028] The activated pectin-containing citrus fiber advantageously has a water-binding capacity of more than 22 g / g. Such a beneficially high water-binding capacity leads to high viscosity and, consequently, to lower fiber consumption with a creamy texture.

[0029] In one embodiment, the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber in a 2.5 wt% suspension has a yield point II (rotation) of more than 1.5 Pa and advantageously more than 2.0 Pa. In a fiber dispersion, the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber correspondingly has a yield point I (rotation) of more than 6.0 Pa.

[0030] According to a further embodiment, the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber in a 2.5 wt% suspension has a yield point II (crossover) of more than 1.2 Pa and advantageously of more than 1.5 Pa. In a fiber dispersion, the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber has a yield point I (crossover) of more than 6.0 Pa and advantageously of more than 6.5 Pa.

[0031] In one embodiment, the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber has a dynamic Weissenberg number in the fiber suspension of more than 7.0, advantageously more than 7.5, and particularly advantageously more than 8.0. After shear activation, the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber correspondingly has a dynamic Weissenberg number in the fiber dispersion of more than 6.0, advantageously more than 6.5, and particularly advantageously more than 7.0.

[0032] Preferably, the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber has a viscosity of at least 650 mPas, wherein the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber is dispersed in water as a 2.5 wt% solution and the viscosity is determined at a shear rate of 50 s -1 measured at 20°C.

[0033] To determine the viscosity, the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber is dispersed in demineralized water as a 2.5 wt% solution using the method disclosed in the examples and the viscosity is measured at 20°C and four shear sections (first and third section = constant profile; second and fourth section = linear ramp; measurement in each case at a shear rate of 50 s -1) (rheometer; Physica MCR series, measuring body CC25 (equivalent to Z3 DIN), Anton Paar, Graz, Austria). An activated pectin-containing citrus fiber with this high viscosity has the advantage that smaller amounts of fiber are required to thicken the final product. Furthermore, the fiber thus produces a creamy texture.

[0034] According to one embodiment, the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber has a moisture content of less than 15%, preferably less than 10% and particularly preferably less than 8%.

[0035] It is also preferred that the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber in 1.0% aqueous solution has a pH of 3.1 to 4.75 and preferably 3.4 to 4.2.

[0036] The activated pectin-containing citrus fiber advantageously has a grain size in which at least 90% of the particles are smaller than 250 µm, preferably smaller than 200 µm and in particular smaller than 150 µm.

[0037] According to an advantageous embodiment, the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber has a brightness value L* > 90, preferably L* > 91 and particularly preferably L* > 92.

[0038] The activated pectin-containing citrus fiber used according to the invention is preferably in powder form. This has the advantage of providing a formulation with low weight and high storage stability, which is also easy to process. This formulation is only made possible by the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber used according to the invention, which, unlike modified starches, does not tend to form lumps when stirred into liquids. Production of activated pectin-containing citrus fiber

[0039] The activated pectin-containing citrus fiber is obtainable through a process that includes the following steps: (a) providing a raw material containing cell wall material of an edible citrus fruit; (b) digestion of the raw material by incubating an aqueous suspension of the raw material between 60 °C and 95 °C at an acidic pH, the pH of the suspension being between pH = 0.5 and pH = 4.0; (c) single or multi-stage separation of the digested material from step (b) from the aqueous liquid; (d) washing the material separated in step (c) with an aqueous solution, wherein the aqueous solution is water, deionized water or a salt solution with an ionic strength of I < 0.2 mol / l, and separating coarse or undigested particles; (e) separating the washed material from step (d) from the aqueous solution; (f) washing the separated material from step (e) at least twice with an organic solvent and subsequently separating the washed material from the organic solvent each time; (g) Optional additional removal of the organic solvent by contacting the washed material from step (f) with steam; (h) drying the material from step (f) or (g) comprising vacuum drying to obtain the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber.

[0040] Citrus fruits and, preferably, citrus processing residues can be used as raw materials. The raw material used in the process can be citrus peel (and in this case, albedo and / or flavedo), citrus vesicles, segmented membranes, or a combination thereof. The preferred raw material is citrus pomace, i.e., the press residues of citrus fruits, which typically contain the pulp in addition to the peel.

[0041] The acidic pulping in step (b) of the process serves to remove pectin by converting the protopectin into soluble pectin and simultaneously activates the fiber by increasing its internal surface area. Furthermore, the pulping process thermally breaks down the raw material. Through acidic incubation in an aqueous environment under the influence of heat, it breaks down into citrus fibers. This achieves thermal comminution, eliminating the need for a mechanical comminution step in the production process. This represents a decisive advantage over conventional fiber production processes, which, in contrast, require a shearing step (such as (high) pressure homogenization) to obtain a fiber with sufficient rheological properties.

[0042] During the digestion in step b), the raw material is present as an aqueous suspension. According to the invention, a suspension is a heterogeneous mixture of a liquid and finely dispersed solids (raw material particles) within it. Since the suspension tends to sediment and phase separate, the particles are suitably kept suspended by shaking or stirring. Thus, there is no dispersion in which the particles are comminuted by mechanical action (shear) to such an extent that they are finely dispersed.

[0043] To achieve an acidic pH in step b), the skilled person can use any known acid or acidic buffer solution. For example, an organic acid such as citric acid can be used.

[0044] Alternatively, or in combination with this, a mineral acid can also be used. Examples include sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid, nitric acid, or sulfurous acid. Nitric acid is preferred.

[0045] During the acidic digestion in step (b) of the process, the pH of the suspension is between pH = 0.5 and pH = 4.0, preferably between pH = 1.0 and pH = 3.5 and particularly preferably between pH = 1.5 and pH = 3.0.

[0046] The incubation in step b) during the acidic digestion in step b) takes place at a temperature between 60°C and 95°C, preferably between 70°C and 90°C and particularly preferably between 75°C and 85°C.

[0047] The incubation in step b) takes place over a period of time between 60 minutes and 8 hours and preferably between 2 hours and 6 hours.

[0048] The aqueous suspension in the acidic digestion in step b) suitably has a dry mass of between 0.5 wt% and 5 wt%, preferably between 1 wt% and 4 wt%, and particularly preferably between 1.5 wt% and 3 wt%.

[0049] The aqueous suspension is stirred or shaken during the digestion in step b). This is preferably done continuously to keep the particles suspended in the suspension.

[0050] In step (c) of the process, the digested material is separated from the aqueous solution and thus recovered. This separation can be performed as a single-stage or multi-stage separation.

[0051] Advantageously, the digested material according to step c) is subjected to a multi-stage separation. It is preferred if the separation from the aqueous liquid involves the stepwise separation of increasingly finer particles. This means, for example, that in a two-stage separation, both stages separate larger particles, with the second stage separating finer particles than the first in order to achieve the most complete separation of the particles from the pectin stream. Preferably, the first separation of particles is carried out using decanters, and the second separation is carried out using separators. Thus, the material becomes increasingly finer in particulate matter with each separation step.

[0052] After acid digestion in step b) and separation of the digested material in step c), the separated material is washed with an aqueous solution in step d). This step removes any remaining water-soluble substances, such as sugar. The removal of sugar in this step contributes to the citrus fiber being less adhesive, making it easier to process and apply.

[0053] For the purposes of the invention, the "aqueous solution" refers to the aqueous liquid used for washing in step d). The mixture of this aqueous solution and the digested material is referred to as the "washing mixture."

[0054] Advantageously, the washing in step (d) is carried out with water as an aqueous solution. The use of deionized water is particularly advantageous here.

[0055] Alternatively, a salt solution with an ionic strength of I < 0.2 mol / l can be used as an aqueous solution.

[0056] The washing according to step (d) is advantageously carried out at a temperature between 30°C and 90°C, preferably between 40°C and 80°C and particularly preferably between 50°C and 70°C.

[0057] The duration of contact with the aqueous solution is between 10 minutes and 2 hours, preferably between 30 minutes and one hour.

[0058] In the washing according to step (d), the dry matter in the washing mixture is between 0.1 wt% and 5 wt%, preferably between 0.5 wt% and 3 wt% and particularly preferably between 1 wt% and 2 wt%.

[0059] More advantageously, the washing according to step (d) is carried out with mechanical agitation of the washing mixture. This is conveniently achieved by stirring or shaking the washing mixture.

[0060] During washing, according to step (d), coarse or non-disintegrated particles are separated. Advantageously, this involves the separation of particles with a grain size of more than 500 µm, more preferably more than 400 µm, and most preferably more than 350 µm.

[0061] Separation is best achieved by wet screening. This can be done using a sieving machine or a belt press. This removes both coarse particulate contaminants from the raw material and insufficiently digested material.

[0062] After washing with the aqueous solution, the washed material is separated from the aqueous solution according to step (e). This separation is advantageously carried out using a decanter or a separator.

[0063] In step (f), a further washing step follows, this time with an organic solvent. This involves washing at least twice with an organic solvent.

[0064] The organic solvent in step f) is advantageously an alcohol which can be selected from the group consisting of methanol, ethanol and isopropanol.

[0065] The washing step takes place at a temperature between 40°C and 75°C, preferably between 50°C and 70°C and particularly preferably between 60°C and 65°C.

[0066] The duration of contacting in step f) with the organic solvent is between 60 minutes and 10 hours and preferably between 2 hours and 8 hours.

[0067] Each washing step with the organic solvent involves contacting the material with the organic solvent for a specific period of time, followed by separating the material from the organic solvent. A decanter or press is preferably used for this separation.

[0068] When washing with the organic solvent in step f), the dry mass in the washing solution is between 0.5 wt% and 15 wt%, preferably between 1.0 wt% and 10 wt%, and particularly preferably between 1.5 wt% and 5.0 wt%.

[0069] Washing with the organic solvent in step f) is preferably carried out with mechanical agitation of the washing mixture. Washing is preferably carried out in a container with a stirrer.

[0070] During washing with the organic solvent in step f), a device for homogenizing the suspension is advantageously used. This device is preferably a gear-type disperser.

[0071] According to an advantageous embodiment, washing in step f) with the organic solvent is carried out in a countercurrent process.

[0072] In one embodiment, during the washing in step f) with the organic solvent, partial neutralization is carried out by adding Na or K salts, NaOH or KOH.

[0073] During washing with the organic solvent in step f), the material can also be decolorized. This decolorization can be achieved by adding one or more oxidizing agents. Examples include chlorine dioxide and hydrogen peroxide, which can be used alone or in combination.

[0074] According to an advantageous embodiment, during the at least two washing steps with an organic solvent in step f), the final concentration of the organic solvent in the solution increases with each washing step. This incrementally increasing proportion of organic solvent reduces the water content in the fiber material in a controlled manner, so that the rheological properties of the fibers are retained during the subsequent solvent removal and drying steps, and the activated fiber structure does not collapse.

[0075] Preferably, the final concentration of the organic solvent in the first washing step is between 60 and 70 vol%, in the second washing step between 70 and 85 vol% and in an optional third washing step between 80 and 90 vol%.

[0076] According to optional step (g), the solvent can be further reduced by contacting the material with steam. This is preferably carried out using a stripper in which the material is contacted countercurrently with steam as the stripping gas.

[0077] In step (h), the washed material from step (f) or the stripped material from step (g) is dried, wherein the drying comprises vacuum drying and preferably consists of vacuum drying. During vacuum drying, the washed material is exposed to negative pressure as a dry product, which reduces the boiling point and thus leads to evaporation of the water even at low temperatures. The heat of vaporization continuously removed from the dry product is suitably supplemented from the outside until the temperature is constant. Vacuum drying has the effect of lowering the equilibrium vapor pressure, which promotes capillary transport. This has proven particularly advantageous for the present citrus fiber material, as it preserves the activated, open fiber structures and thus the resulting rheological properties.Preferably, the vacuum drying is carried out at a negative pressure of less than 400 mbar, preferably less than 300 mbar, further preferably less than 250 mbar and particularly preferably less than 200 mbar.

[0078] According to an advantageous embodiment, the process additionally comprises a comminution, grinding, or sieving step after drying in step (h). This is advantageously designed such that, as a result, 90% of the particles have a grain size of less than 250 µm, preferably a grain size of less than 200 µm, and in particular a grain size of less than 150 µm. At this grain size, the fiber is readily dispersible and exhibits optimal swelling capacity.

[0079] The activated pectin-containing citrus fiber used for the inventive use and a process for its production are disclosed in the application DE 10 2020 115 526.3.

[0080] The activated pectin-containing citrus fiber used according to the invention can be used as a carrier.

[0081] The activated pectin-containing citrus fiber used in the invention can be used as a release agent or flow aid. It forms a protective layer between hygroscopic surfaces. Its ease of use is an advantage.

[0082] The activated pectin-containing citrus fiber used according to the invention can be used for the production of textile fibers and thus for the production of textiles.

[0083] In one embodiment, the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber can be used to produce animal supplies. In this case, the skilled person can use any known animal supplies as products. Advantageously, the animal supplies are animal bedding.

[0084] When used in animal bedding, the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber can offer the following advantages: high water absorption capacity and good retention.

[0085] In one embodiment, the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber can be used to produce a hygiene article. The skilled person can use any known hygiene article as a product. Advantageously, the hygiene article is selected from the group consisting of wet wipes, diapers, incontinence articles such as protective pants or incontinence briefs, sanitary napkins, tampons, panty liners, and soft cups.

[0086] In products such as wet wipes, the use of activated pectin-containing citrus fibers can result in good water binding and good water retention capacity.

[0087] When used in fluid-absorbing products such as diapers, incontinence products such as protective pants or incontinence briefs, sanitary pads, tampons, panty liners or soft cups, the following advantages can be achieved by using activated pectin-containing citrus fiber: high water absorption capacity and good retention.

[0088] In one embodiment, the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber can be used to produce a cleaning agent. In this case, the skilled person can use any known cleaning agent as a product. Advantageously, the cleaning agent is selected from the group consisting of laundry detergent, gall soap, dishwashing detergent, automatic dishwashing detergent, rinse aid, neutral cleaner, scouring agent, window cleaner, limescale remover, drain cleaner, brake cleaner, alcohol-based cleaner, all-purpose cleaner, glass cleaner, sanitary cleaner, toilet cleaner, toilet gel, toilet block, carpet cleaner, car care products, oven cleaner, bathroom cleaner, metal polish, shoe polish, oil binder, and anti-dust binder.

[0089] In detergents, the use of activated pectin-containing citrus fiber can provide the following advantages: good adhesion to toilet walls, good and stable gel formation, advantageous abrasiveness, good solubility.

[0090] When used in toilet gels or toilet gel blocks, the following advantages can be achieved by using activated pectin-containing citrus fiber: as a release agent, good separation of the functional components and a homogeneous distribution of the abrasive substances and active ingredients.

[0091] In liquid cleaning agents, and especially in dishwashing detergents, the following advantages can be achieved when using activated pectin-containing citrus fiber: as a release agent, good separation of the functional components and homogeneous distribution of the abrasive substances and active ingredients, good emulsion formation.

[0092] When using activated pectin-containing citrus fiber in shoe polish, the following advantages can be achieved: good and stable emulsion formation, advantageous texturing.

[0093] In one embodiment, the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber can be used to produce a coating agent. In this case, the skilled person can use any known coating agent as products. Advantageously, the coating agent is selected from the group consisting of antistatic coating, oleophobic coating, and antiblock coating.

[0094] In one embodiment, the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber can be used to produce an explosive. In this case, the skilled person can use any known explosive as a product. The explosive is advantageously a gelatinous explosive.

[0095] Citrus fiber can be used as a release agent in the explosive. It can reduce hygroscopicity, control gelation, and facilitate processing.

[0096] In one embodiment, the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber can be used to produce a lubricant. In this case, the skilled person can use any known lubricant as a product. The lubricant is advantageously selected from the group consisting of liquid lubricants, such as lubricating oil and cooling lubricants, lubricating grease, and solid lubricants.

[0097] When used in a lubricant, the following advantages can be achieved by using activated pectin-containing citrus fiber: targeted adjustment of viscosity and yield point, stabilization of the emulsion.

[0098] When used as a coolant, the following advantages can be achieved by using activated pectin-containing citrus fiber: targeted adjustment of viscosity and yield point, and thus optimized energy absorption to improve cooling capacity.

[0099] In one embodiment, the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber can be used to manufacture a plastic product. In this case, the skilled person can use any known plastic product. Advantageously, the plastic product is a citrus fiber-reinforced plastic or a wood-plastic composite (WPC).

[0100] The production of an alternative plastic product is conveniently achieved by producing a compressed product. This can be used to manufacture flower pots, straws, or pallets, for example.

[0101] In one embodiment, the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber can be used to produce a varnish. The skilled person can use any known varnish as the product. Advantageously, the varnish is selected from the group consisting of alkyd resin varnish, oil-based varnish, cellulose nitrate varnish, bitumen varnish, tar-based varnish, phenolic resin varnish, urea resin varnish, melamine resin varnish, polyester varnish, epoxy resin varnish, polyurethane resin varnish, acrylic varnish, and powder coating.

[0102] In one embodiment, the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber can be used to produce a paint. The skilled person can use any known paint as the product. The paint is advantageously selected from the group consisting of glaze, oil paint, emulsion paint, lime paint, silicate paint, and liquid plaster.

[0103] In coatings, the use of activated pectin-containing citrus fiber can be advantageous in the following respects: targeted viscosity adjustment, good emulsion stabilization and adjustment of the yield point, better material adhesion, better processability, e.g. with regard to spreadability or sprayability.

[0104] In one embodiment, the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber can be used to produce a building material. In this case, the skilled person can use any known building material as products. The building material is advantageously selected from the group consisting of construction foam, insulation material, concrete, screed, mortar, cement, chemical bonded anchors, chemical bonded anchors, asphalt, and low-noise asphalt.

[0105] The addition of activated pectin-containing citrus fiber to an asphalt mixture leads to the formation of a noise-dampening so-called “whisper asphalt.”

[0106] The addition of activated pectin-containing citrus fiber to building materials such as concrete, screed, mortar or cement in an asphalt mixture can achieve the following: controlled drying, reduction of cracking, optimized long-term durability and control of setting.

[0107] The addition of activated pectin-containing citrus fiber to an insulating material can stabilize the matrix and reduce heat transfer and sound transmission.

[0108] In a construction foam, the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber can stabilize the foam and thus beneficially influence the structural composition of the matrix.

[0109] In one embodiment, the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber can be used to produce an adhesive. The skilled person can use any of the adhesives known to the art as products. The adhesive is advantageously selected from the group consisting of dispersion adhesives, hot melt adhesives, plastisol, cyanoacrylate adhesives, methyl methacrylate adhesives, unsaturated polyester adhesives, epoxy adhesives, polyurethane adhesives, silicones, phenolic resin adhesives, polyimide adhesives, polysulfide adhesives, bismaleimide adhesives, adhesives based on silane-modified polymers, silicone adhesives, and pastes.

[0110] In adhesives, and especially in paste, the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber can be used to specifically adjust the viscosity and also improve spreadability.

[0111] In one embodiment, the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber can be used to produce a battery. In this case, the skilled person can use any known battery as a product. The battery is advantageously selected from the group consisting of primary cells, accumulators, and solid-state cells.

[0112] In one embodiment, the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber can be used in the construction sector. Advantageously, this includes applications in road and path construction, masonry construction, concrete construction, and reinforced concrete construction.

[0113] In one embodiment, the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber can be used in borehole mining. It is advantageous to use it as an additive to a drilling mud or frac fluid.

[0114] When used in drilling fluids or frac fluids, the following advantages can be achieved by applying activated pectin-containing citrus fiber: increased viscosity in drilling mud or similar drilling fluids, displacement of oil by a higher-viscosity medium, targeted viscosity adjustment, oil binding, and good emulsion formation. As a result, activated pectin-containing citrus fiber can be used as a mining aid.

[0115] In one embodiment, the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber can be used in the agricultural sector. Advantageously, it can be used in fertilizers, humectants, soil improvers, plant substrates, flower pots, or substrate-compressed extrudates.

[0116] In one embodiment, the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber can be used to produce a fertilizer. In this case, the skilled person can use any known fertilizer as a product. Advantageously, the fertilizer is a binder for fertilizer cones.

[0117] When used to produce a fertilizer, the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber can help to keep the active ingredients suspended and to specifically adjust viscosity and yield point.

[0118] In a substrate-compressed extrudate, the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber can serve as a carrier and / or separating agent. This allows the pectin to be released from the fibers and release nutrients in an orderly manner. Furthermore, it can support moisture retention.

[0119] In one embodiment, the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber can be used as a reinforcing agent for the production of a composite material. In this case, the skilled person can use any known composite material as products. The activated pectin-containing citrus fiber is advantageously used here as a replacement for microplastics for the targeted adjustment of abrasive properties.

[0120] Alternatively, the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber can be used for the surface treatment of the composite materials.

[0121] When used to produce a composite material, the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber can optimize durability and lead to improved elasticity.

[0122] In a further aspect, the invention relates to a product selected from the group comprising pet supplies, hygiene articles, cleaning agents, coating agents, explosives, lubricants, coolants, plastic products, textiles, artificial leather, varnish, ink, paints, building materials, composite materials, paper, cardboard, adhesives, fertilizers, batteries, wherein the product is characterized in that it comprises the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber.

[0123] In one embodiment, the product comprises the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber in a proportion of between 0.05 wt% and 90 wt%, preferably between 0.1 and 50 wt%, particularly preferably from 0.1 to 25 wt% and especially preferably between 0.5 and 10 wt%. For example, the proportion of activated pectin-containing citrus fiber can be 1.0%, 1.25%, 1.5%, 1.75%, 2.0%, 2.25%, 2.5%, 2.75%, 3.0%, 3.25%, 3.5%, 3.75%, 4.0%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%, 15%, 16%, 17%, 18%, 19%, 20%, 21%, 22%, 23%, 24%, 25%, 26%, 27%, 28%, 29%, 30%, 31%, 32%, 33%, 34%, 35%, 36%, 37%, 38%, 39%, 40%, 41%, 42%, 43%, 44%, 45%, 46%, 47%, 48%, 49%, 50%, 51%, 52%, 53%, 54%, 55%, 56%, 57%, 58%, 59%, 60%, 61%, 62%, 63%, 64%, 65%, 66%, 67%, 68%, 69%, 70%, 71%, 72%, 73%, 74%, 75%, 76%, 77%, 78%, 79%, 80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88% or 89%, these being percentages by weight. Definitions

[0124] A "citrus fiber" according to the application is a predominantly fiber component isolated from a non-woody plant cell wall of a citrus fruit and consisting primarily of cellulose. The term "fiber" is somewhat misnomer because citrus fibers do not appear macroscopically as fibers, but rather as a powdered product. Other components of citrus fiber include hemicellulose and pectin. The citrus fiber can advantageously be obtained from citrus pulp, citrus peel, citrus vesicles, segmented membranes, or a combination thereof.

[0125] A soluble pectin according to the application is defined as a plant polysaccharide which, as a polyuronide, consists essentially of α-1,4-glycosidically linked D-galacturonic acid units. The galacturonic acid units are partially esterified with methanol. The degree of esterification describes the percentage of carboxyl groups in the galacturonic acid units of the pectin that are present in esterified form, e.g., as methyl esters.

[0126] For the purposes of the present invention, a high-esterification pectin is defined as one with a degree of esterification of more than 50%. A low-esterification pectin, on the other hand, has a degree of esterification of less than 50%. The degree of esterification describes the percentage of carboxyl groups in the galacturonic acid units of the pectin that are present in esterified form, e.g., as methyl esters. The degree of esterification can be determined using the JECFA method (Monograph 19-2016, Joint FAO / WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives).

[0127] For the purposes of the invention, “animal bedding” refers to materials used in animal husbandry to cover the floor in stables and cages and to absorb the animals’ excrement.

[0128] A “consumer article” within the meaning of this application is an article which, in accordance with Section 2 Paragraph 6 of the German Food, Consumer Goods and Feed Code (LFGB), is an article which is selected from the list consisting of: No. 1 Materials and articles intended to come into contact with food (also referred to as food contact materials), No. 2 packages, containers or other wrappings intended to come into contact with cosmetic products, No. 3 Articles intended to come into contact with the mucous membranes of the mouth, No. 4 Items intended for personal hygiene, No. 5 Toys and joke items, No. 6 Articles intended to come into contact with the human body for more than a temporary period, such as clothing, bedding, masks, wigs, hairpieces, artificial eyelashes, bracelets, No. 7 Cleaning and care products intended for domestic use or for consumer goods within the meaning of No. 1, No. 8 Impregnating agents and other finishing agents for consumer goods within the meaning of No. 6 which are intended for domestic use, No. 9 Means and items for improving odors in rooms intended for human habitation.

[0129] A "filter aid" in the invention is a chemically inert substance that physically and mechanically supports filtration. It should not be confused with or equated with a flocculant. Filter aids are used to facilitate cleaning of the actual filter or filter insert or to prevent suspended solids from clogging the filter or entering the filtrate. Filter aids are used generally in water treatment, beverage filtration, and more specifically in the chemical industry.

[0130] A "reinforcing material" according to the present invention refers to an individual material of a composite material. As its name suggests, the reinforcing material is intended to ensure the strength and rigidity of the composite material. In addition to its type, the form of the reinforcing material is of key importance, whether it is present as particles, fibers, or layers. Reinforcement refers in particular to the organic additives used in plastics that reinforce the plastic matrix. Reinforcement refers to the improvement of mechanical and physical properties, such as elasticity, flexural strength, creep mechanics, and heat resistance. Reinforcing materials are used specifically to improve these material properties.

[0131] A "thickener" in the context of this application is a substance that is primarily capable of binding water. The removal of unbound water increases the viscosity. Above a concentration characteristic of each thickener, network effects also occur in addition to this effect, which usually lead to a disproportionate increase in viscosity. Thickeners therefore have the ability to impart a specific consistency to a product. Thickening here means an increased viscosity or firmness of the product as a result of the use of the thickener.

[0132] A "filler" according to the invention is an insoluble additive which, when added in high concentration to the base material (the matrix), can, among other things, significantly change the mechanical, electrical or processing properties of materials and at the same time significantly reduce the proportion of the typically more expensive matrix in the finished product.

[0133] A "carrier" according to the invention is a substance to which other substances can be attached (physically bound), i.e., which can "carry" other substances. For example, a pharmaceutical active ingredient or a flavoring agent that would otherwise be difficult to dose can be bound to a carrier that is easier to dose.

[0134] For the purposes of the present invention, an "emulsifier" is understood to mean an auxiliary substance used to blend and stabilize two immiscible liquids, such as oil and water, into a finely dispersed mixture, known as an emulsion. The same applies to the mixing of solid, insoluble substances in a liquid to stabilize a suspension.

[0135] A "release agent" according to the invention is a technical auxiliary that prevents sticking or clumping. Thus, release agents are also substances that increase or maintain flowability. Release agents, for example, prevent salt from clumping. As a technical auxiliary, they are used in industrial processing. These technical auxiliary agents are additives added to facilitate technical processes such as cutting and filtering. However, these technical auxiliary agents must not be present in the final product at all or only in unavoidable (small) residues.

[0136] A "flow aid" according to the invention is a release agent that is added to crystalline substances to prevent the individual crystals from clumping together, primarily for the purpose of improving machine usability. Its use is intended to prevent, for example, table salt from clumping before or during processing, thus making it more difficult to dose.

[0137] A "stabilizer" according to the invention is an additive that, when added to a metastable system, maintains and thus stabilizes its properties, manageability, or other parameters in a defined manner. A stabilizer can have one or more additional functions.

[0138] A “foaming agent” according to the invention ensures that gases are distributed evenly in liquids or solids.

[0139] According to the invention, a "whipping agent" is an additive that, when added to a mixture, allows the volume of the mixture to be increased by incorporating air. Whipping agents stabilize the mixture and thus simplify handling.

[0140] For the purposes of this application, "cleaning agents" are consumables used to clean a wide variety of items and objects. They effect or assist in the removal of contaminants resulting from use or residues and adhesions from the object's manufacturing process. Different applications require different cleaning agents. For laundry and textiles, detergents (heavy-duty detergents, color detergents, fabric softeners, etc.) or gall soap are used. For tableware (cookware, dinnerware, and cutlery), dishwashing detergent, automatic dishwashing detergent, or rinse aid are used. For surfaces in living and working spaces: neutral cleaners, scouring agents (scouring sand), or window cleaning agents.Other RMs include limescale removers, drain cleaners, brake cleaners, alcohol cleaners, all-purpose cleaners, glass cleaners, sanitary cleaners, toilet cleaners, carpet cleaners, car care products, oven cleaners, bathroom cleaners and metal cleaning products.

[0141] In the context of this application, a "lubricant" (also known as a lubricant) is a substance used for lubrication and to reduce friction and wear, as well as for cooling, vibration dampening, sealing, and corrosion protection. In principle, all lubricants consist of a base fluid (usually a base oil) and other ingredients called additives. Examples of lubricants include liquid lubricants (lubricating oils and cooling lubricants), lubricating greases, and solid lubricants (e.g., graphite).

[0142] “Coolants” in the context of the invention are liquid or solid substances or mixtures of substances that are used to dissipate heat.

[0143] A "composite material" is a material made of two or more bonded materials that possesses different properties than its individual components. The properties of composite materials are influenced by the material properties and geometry of the components. Size effects often play a role.

[0144] In the context of the present invention, "paints," also called coating materials or paints, are liquid to paste-like, and less frequently powder-like, substances or mixtures that, when applied to surfaces, produce a physically drying or chemically curing coating. According to DIN 55945, a paint is a "liquid to paste-like coating material that is applied primarily by brushing or rolling."

[0145] For the purposes of the present invention, an "adhesive" is defined as a non-metallic substance capable of bonding materials through surface adhesion and its internal strength (cohesion). It is therefore a process material used in the bonding process to join different materials. Examples include dispersion adhesives, hot melt adhesives, plastisol, cyanoacrylate adhesives, methyl methacrylate adhesives, unsaturated polyester adhesives, epoxy adhesives, polyurethane adhesives, silicones, phenolic resin adhesives, polyimide adhesives, polysulfide adhesives, bismaleimide adhesives, adhesives based on silane-modified polymers, and silicone adhesives.

[0146] "Drilling fluids" (also called drilling mud) in the context of this application are fluids that are pumped through the borehole during drilling. There are two basic types of drilling fluids: water-based and oil-based. Drilling fluids are essentially used to stabilize a borehole, clean the bottom of the borehole, and remove the drilled-out soil material (drilling cuttings). Furthermore, they dissipate the considerable frictional heat generated at the drill bit, thus cooling and lubricating the drilling tool. They also reduce the frictional resistance for the drill bit and rotating drill rod and dampen their vibrations.

[0147] Fracking is a method for creating, widening, and stabilizing fractures in the rock of a deep underground reservoir. The goal is to increase the permeability of the reservoir rock. This allows gases or fluids contained therein to flow more easily and consistently to the well and be extracted. Fracking involves injecting a fluid (“frac fluid”) through a borehole into the geological horizon from which oil is to be extracted, under high pressure, typically several hundred bar. The frac fluid is water, usually mixed with proppant materials such as quartz sand and thickeners.

[0148] At this point, it should be explicitly pointed out that features of the solutions described above or in the claims and / or figures can also be combined if necessary in order to be able to implement or achieve the explained features, effects and advantages accordingly in a cumulative manner.

[0149] All features disclosed in the application documents are claimed as essential to the invention, provided that they are new, individually or in combination, compared to the prior art.

[0150] It should also be expressly pointed out that, in the context of this patent application, indefinite articles and numerical expressions such as “one”, “two”, etc. are generally to be understood as “at least” expressions, i.e. as “at least one...”, “at least two...”, etc., unless it is expressly clear from the respective context or it is obvious or technically necessary for the person skilled in the art that only “exactly one...”, “exactly two...”, etc. can be meant.

[0151] Further advantages, special features and expedient developments of the invention emerge from the subclaims and the following representation of preferred embodiments with reference to the figures.

[0152] The embodiments shown here are merely examples of the present invention and should therefore not be considered limiting. Alternative embodiments contemplated by those skilled in the art are equally encompassed within the scope of the present invention. Examples1 Production of an activated pectin-containing citrus fiber

[0153] In Fig.Figure 1 shows a process for producing activated pectin-containing citrus fiber schematically as a flow diagram. Starting from the citrus pomace 10, the pomace is hydrolyzed by incubation in an acidic solution at 70° to 80°C. This is followed by two separate steps 30a (decanter) and 30b (separator) to remove as much of the particles as possible from the liquid phase. The separated material is washed with an aqueous solution 35. Coarse or undigested particles are separated from the resulting wash mixture by wet sieving. 40 to separate the solid from the liquid phase. Subsequently, two alcohol washing steps 50 and 70 are carried out, each followed by a solid-liquid separation using decanters 60 and 80. In the optional step 90, any residual alcohol can be removed by blowing in steam.Finally, in step 100, the fibers are gently dried by means of vacuum drying to obtain the citrus fibers 110. 1.1 Preparation of a 2.5 wt% fiber dispersionRecipe: 2.50 g citrus fiber 97.5 g demineralized water (room temperature) Littering time: 15 seconds

[0154] The required amount of demineralized water (room temperature) is placed in a 250 ml beaker. The precisely weighed amount of citrus fiber is slowly sprinkled directly into the agitator's suction while the stirrer (Ultra Turrax) is running at 8000 rpm (speed 1). The sprinkling time depends on the amount of fiber; it should last 15 seconds per 2.5 g of sample. The dispersion is then stirred for exactly 60 seconds at 8000 rpm (speed 1). If the sample is to be used for viscosity determination, it is placed in a temperature-controlled water bath at 20°C.

[0155] To measure viscosity, the yield point I (rotation), the yield point I (crossover), or the dynamic Weissenberg number, the sample is carefully poured into the rheometer's measuring system after exactly 1 hour and the respective measurement is started. If the sample settles, it is gently stirred with a spoon immediately before filling. 1.2 Preparation of a 2.5 wt% fiber suspensionRecipe: 2.50 g fiber 97.5 g demineralized water (room temperature)

[0156] The required amount of water (room temperature) is placed in a 250 ml beaker. The precisely weighed amount of fiber is slowly added while stirring continuously with a plastic spoon. The suspension is then stirred until all fibers are wetted with water. If the sample is to be used to determine viscosity, the yield point II (rotation), the yield point II (crossover), or the dynamic Weissenberg number, it is placed in a temperature-controlled water bath at 20°C.

[0157] To measure viscosity, yield point II (rotation), yield point II (crossover), or dynamic Weissenberg number, the sample is carefully poured into the rheometer's measuring system after exactly 1 hour and the respective measurement is started. If the sample settles, it is gently stirred with a spoon immediately before filling. 1.3 Test method for determining water binding capacity. Procedure:

[0158] The sample is allowed to swell with excess water for 24 hours at room temperature. After centrifugation and subsequent decantation of the supernatant, the water binding capacity can be determined gravimetrically in g H2O per g sample. The pH value of the suspension must be measured and documented.

[0159] The following parameters must be observed: Sample weight: - Plant fiber: 1.0 g (in centrifuge tube) - Adding water: 60 ml - Centrifugation: 4000 g - Centrifugation time 10 minutes

[0160] 20 minutes after centrifugation begins (or 10 minutes after centrifugation ends), separate the supernatant water from the swollen sample. The sample with the bound water is weighed.

[0161] The water binding capacity (WBV) in g H2O / g sample can now be calculated using the following formula: WBV(g H2O / g sample)=sample with bound water(g)−1.0 g1.0 g 1.4 Test method for determining the yield point (rotational measurement)Measurement principle:

[0162] This yield point provides information about the structural strength and is determined in the rotation test by increasing the shear stress acting on the sample over time until the sample begins to flow.

[0163] Shear stresses below the yield point cause only elastic deformation, which only results in yielding at shear stresses above the yield point. In this determination, this is measured by exceeding a specified minimum shear rate γ̇. According to the present method, the yield point τ o [Pa] at shear rate γ̇ ≥ 0.1 s -1 exceeded. Measuring device: Rheometer Physica MCR series (e.g. MCR 301, MCR 101) Measuring system: Z3 DIN or CC25 Measuring cup: CC 27 P06 (ribbed measuring cup) Measuring temperature: 20 °C Measurement parameters: 1st section (resting phase): Section settings: - Default size: Shear stress [Pa] - Profile: constant - Value: 0 Pa - Section duration: 180 s - Temperature: 20 °C Section 2 (Determination of the yield point): Section settings: - Default size: Shear stress [Pa] - Profile: Ramp log. - Starting value: 0.1 Pa - Final value: 80 Pa - Section duration: 180 s - Temperature: 20 °C Section 3 (Determination of viscosity): Section settings: - Default size: Scherrate [s -1 ] - Profile: Ramp lin. - Starting value: 0 s -1 - Final value: 120 s -1 - Section duration: 120 s - Temperature: 20 °C Evaluation:

[0164] The yield point τ o (Unit [Pa] is read in section 2 and is the shear stress (unit: [Pa]) at which the shear rate was last γ̇ ≤ 0.10 s -1 amounts.

[0165] The yield point measured using the rotation method is also called “yield point rotation”.

[0166] The yield point rotation was measured using a fiber suspension (simply stirring the fiber with a spoon = corresponds to a non-activated fiber) and is also referred to as "yield point rotation II" in the context of the invention. The yield point was also measured using a fiber dispersion (stirred in under the influence of high shear forces; e.g., with Ultra Turrax = corresponds to an activated fiber) and is also referred to as "yield point rotation I" in the context of the invention. 1.5 Test method for determining the yield point (oscillation measurement)Measurement principle:

[0167] This yield point also provides information about the structural strength and is determined in the oscillation test by increasing the amplitude at a constant frequency until the sample is destroyed by the ever-increasing deflection and then begins to flow.

[0168] Below the yield point, the substance behaves like an elastic solid, i.e. the elastic components (G') are higher than the viscous components (G''), whereas when the yield point is exceeded, the viscous components of the sample increase and the elastic components decrease.

[0169] By definition, the yield point is exceeded at the amplitude when there are equal amounts of viscous and elastic components G' = G'' (Cross Over), the associated shear stress is the corresponding measured value. Measuring device: Rheometer Physica MCR series (e.g. MCR 301, MCR 101) Measuring system: Z3 DIN or CC25 Measuring cup: CC 27 P06 (ribbed measuring cup) Measurement parameters: Section settings: - Amplitude specifications: Deformation [%] - Profile: Ramp log. - Value: 0,01 - 1000% - Frequency specifications: Frequency [Hz] - Profile: const - Frequency: 1.0 Hz - Temperature: 20 °C Evaluation:

[0170] Using the rheometer software Rheoplus, the shear stress at the crossover is evaluated after exceeding the linear-viscoelastic range (i.e. G' = G'').

[0171] The yield point measured using the oscillation method is also called “yield point cross over”.

[0172] The yield point crossover was measured using a fiber suspension (simply stirring the fiber in with a spoon = corresponds to a non-shear-activated fiber) and is also referred to as "yield point crossover II" in the context of the invention. The yield point was also measured using a fiber dispersion (stirred in under the influence of high shear forces; e.g., with Ultra Turrax = corresponds to a shear-activated fiber) and is also referred to as "yield point crossover I" in the context of the invention. Measurement results and their meaning:

[0173] Considering the yield point for the suspensions of the fibers used according to the invention, stirred with a spoon (corresponding to a non-activated fiber), and with a fiber dispersion stirred with high shear forces, e.g., Ultra Turrax (corresponding to an activated fiber), one can make a statement about the advantage / necessity of activation. The measurement results are summarized in the following table. As expected, the yield point increases in each case due to shear activation in the dispersion. However, the fiber suspension also has a yield point, which is expressed as τ o II >1.5 Pa is sufficiently high to achieve a creamy texture. Therefore, fiber activation is not absolutely necessary. fiber rotation Crossover activation t o II [Pa] Suspension t o I [Pa] Dispersion t o II [Pa] Suspension t o I [Pa] Dispersion Activated pectin-containing citrus fiber 2,3 6,9 1,8 7,2 not absolutely necessary 1.6 Test method for determining the dynamic Weissenberg numberMeasurement principle and significance of the dynamic Weissenberg number:

[0174] The dynamic Weissenberg number W' (Windhab E, Maier T, Lebensmitteltechnik 1990, 44: 185f) is a derived quantity in which the elastic components (G') determined in the oscillation test in the linear-viscoelastic range are related to the viscous components (G''): W'=G'(ω)G''(ω)=1tan δ

[0175] The dynamic Weissenberg number provides a value that correlates particularly well with the sensory perception of consistency and can be considered relatively independent of the absolute firmness of the sample.

[0176] A high W' value means that the fibers have a predominantly elastic structure, while a low W' value indicates structures with significantly viscous components. The creamy texture typical of fibers is achieved when the W' values ​​are in the range of approximately 6-8; at lower values, the sample is assessed as watery (less thickened). Materials and methods: Measuring device: Rheometer Physica MCR series, e.g. MCR 301, MCR 101 Measuring system: Z3 DIN or CC25 Measuring cup: CC 27 P06 (ribbed measuring cup) Measurement parameters: Section settings: - Amplitude specifications: Deformation [%] - Profile: Ramp log - Value: 0,01 - 1000 % - Frequency: 1.0 Hz - Temperature: 20 °C Evaluation:

[0177] The phase shift angle δ is read in the linear-viscoelastic range. The dynamic Weissenberg number W' is then calculated using the following formula: W'=1tan δ Measurement results and their meaning:

[0178] If one considers the dynamic Weissenberg number W' for the suspension of a fiber used according to the invention, stirred in with a spoon (corresponding to a non-activated fiber), with a fiber dispersion stirred with high shear forces, e.g. Ultra Turrax (corresponding to an activated fiber), one can make a statement about the texture and also about the need for activation. The measurement results are summarized in the following table. The activated pectin-containing citrus fiber according to the invention lies in the ideal range with W' values ​​of 8.1 in the suspension and 7.3 for the dispersion and thus has an optimal texture. In both cases it has a creamy texture. The results for the dynamic Weissenberg number therefore also show that activation of the fiber is not absolutely necessary. fiber W' Suspension W' Dispersion texture Activated pectin-containing citrus fiber 8,1 7,3 Creamy with and without activation, viscosity / yield limit is regulated by the dosage 1.7 Test method for determining strengthExecution:

[0179] Place 150 ml of distilled water in a beaker. Then, using a spoon, stir 6.0 g of citrus fiber into the water until lump-free. This fiber-water mixture is allowed to stand for 20 minutes to swell. Transfer the suspension to a 90 mm diameter container. The strength is then measured using the following method. Measuring device: Texture analyzer TA-XT 2 (Stable Micro Systems, Godalming, UK)

[0180] Test method / option: Measurement of force in compression direction / simple test Parameter: - Test speed: 1.0 mm / s - Travel: 15.0 mm / s Measuring tool: - P / 50

[0181] The strength corresponds to the force required by the measuring body to penetrate 10 mm into the suspension. This force is read from the force-time diagram. 1.8 Test method for determining grain sizeMeasuring principle:

[0182] In a sieving machine, a set of sieves is arranged one above the other, with a mesh size that increases from the bottom sieve to the top. The sample is placed on the top sieve, the one with the largest mesh size. Sample particles with a diameter larger than the mesh size remain on the sieve; the finer particles pass through to the next sieve. The proportion of sample on the various sieves is weighed and expressed as a percentage. Implementation:

[0183] The sample is weighed to two decimal places. The sieves are fitted with sieving aids and stacked one above the other with increasing mesh sizes. The sample is quantitatively transferred to the top sieve, the sieves are clamped, and the sieving process proceeds according to defined parameters. The individual sieves are weighed with the sample and sieving aid, as well as empty with the sieving aid. If only one limit value in the particle size range is to be tested for a product (e.g., 90% < 250 µm), only one sieve with the corresponding mesh size is used. Measurement specifications: Sample quantity: 15 g Sieving aids: 2 per sieve bottom Screening machine: AS 200 digit, Retsch GmbH Sieve movement: three-dimensional Vibration height: 1.5 mm Sieving time: 15 minutes

[0184] The sieve structure consists of the following mesh sizes in µm: 1400, 1180, 1000, 710, 500, 355, 250, 150 followed by the bottom.

[0185] The grain size is calculated using the following formula: Share per sieve in % = final weight in g on the sieve × 100 sample weight in g 1.9 Test method for determining viscosity Measuring device: Physica MCR series (e.g. MCR 301, MCR 101) Measuring system: Z3 DIN or CC25 (Note: The Z3 DIN and CC25 measuring systems are identical measuring systems) Number of sections: 4

[0186] Before measurement, the sample is heated in a water bath at 20°C for at least 15 minutes. Measurement parameters: Section 1: Section settings: - Default size: Shear rate [s -1 ] - Profile: constant - Value: 0 s -1 - Section duration: 60 s - Temperature: 20 °C Section 2: Section settings: - Default size: Shear rate [s -1 ] - Profile: Linear ramp - Value: 0,1 - 100 s -1 - Section duration: 120 s - Temperature: 20 °C Section 3: Section settings: - Default size: Shear rate [s -1 ] - Profile: constant - Value: 100 s -1 - Section duration: 10 s - Temperature: 20 °C Section 4: Section settings: - Default size: Shear rate [s -1 ] - Profile: Linear ramp - Value: 100 - 0,1 s -1 - Section duration: 120 s - Temperature: 20 °C Evaluation:

[0187] The viscosity (unit [mPas]) is read as follows: 4th section at = 50 s -1 1.10 Test method for determining the degree of esterification

[0188] This method corresponds to the method published by JECFA (Joint FAO / WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives). Unlike the JECFA method, the deashed pectin is not dissolved in cold water, but heated. Isopropanol is used as the alcohol instead of ethanol. 1.11Test method for determining moistureMeasurement principle:

[0189] The moisture content of a sample is defined as the loss of mass after drying, determined under defined conditions. The moisture content of the sample is determined using infrared drying with the Sartorius MA-45 moisture analyzer (Sartorius, Göttingen, Germany). Implementation:

[0190] Approximately 2.5 g of the fiber sample is weighed into the Sartorius moisture analyzer. The device settings can be found in the corresponding factory measurement instructions. The samples should be at approximately room temperature for the analysis. The moisture content is automatically displayed by the device as a percentage [% M]. The dry matter content is automatically displayed by the device as a percentage [% S]. 1.13 Test method for determining color and brightnessMeasurement principle:

[0191] Color and brightness measurements are performed using the Minolta Chromameter CR 300 or CR 400. The spectral properties of a sample are determined using standard color values. The color of a sample is described by its hue, brightness, and saturation. These three basic properties allow the color to be represented three-dimensionally: The hues lie on the outer surface of the color solid, the brightness varies along the vertical axis, and the saturation level runs horizontally. When using the L*a*b* measurement system (pronounced L-star, a-star, b-star), L* represents the brightness, while a* and b* indicate both the hue and saturation. a* and b* indicate the positions on two color axes, with a* representing the red-green axis and b* the blue-yellow axis. For the color measurement displays, the device converts the standard tristimulus values ​​into L*a*b* coordinates. Carrying out the measurement:

[0192] The sample is sprinkled onto a white sheet of paper and leveled with a glass stopper. For measurement, the chromameter's measuring head is placed directly on the sample and the trigger is pressed. Triplicate measurements are taken for each sample, and the average is calculated. The L*, a*, and b* values ​​are displayed by the instrument to two decimal places.

[0193] The embodiments shown here are merely examples of the present invention and should therefore not be considered limiting. Alternative embodiments contemplated by those skilled in the art are equally encompassed within the scope of the present invention. 1.14 Test method for the determination of water-soluble pectin in fiber-containing samples.Measurement principle:

[0194] Through aqueous extraction, the pectin contained in fiber-containing samples is transferred to the liquid phase. By adding alcohol, the pectin is precipitated from the extract as an alcohol-insoluble substance (AIS). Extraction:

[0195] Weigh 10.0 g of the sample to be tested into a glass dish. Place 390 g of boiling distilled water into a beaker, and stir the previously weighed sample for 1 minute at the highest speed using an Ultra-Turrax.

[0196] The sample suspension, cooled to room temperature, is divided into four 150 ml centrifuge beakers and centrifuged for 10 min at 4000 × g. The supernatant is collected. The sediment from each beaker is resuspended with 50 g of distilled water and centrifuged again for 10 min at 4000 × g. The supernatant is collected, and the sediment is discarded.

[0197] The combined centrifuges are placed in approximately 4 l of isopropanol (98%) to precipitate the alcohol-insoluble substance (AIS). After 30 minutes, the AIS is filtered through a filter cloth and manually pressed. The AIS is then placed in approximately 3 l of isopropanol (98%) in the filter cloth and loosened by hand while wearing gloves.

[0198] The pressing process is repeated, the AIS is quantitatively removed from the filter cloth, loosened and dried at 60 °C for 1 hour in a drying cabinet.

[0199] The pressed, dried substance is weighed to 0.1 g to calculate the alcohol-insoluble substance (AIS). Calculation:

[0200] The calculation of the water-soluble pectin based on the fiber-containing sample is carried out using the following formula, where the water-soluble pectin is obtained as an alcohol-insoluble substance (AIS): AIS in the sample in wt.%(g100g)=dried AIS[g]×100sample weight in g List of reference symbols: 10 citrus pomace 20 Hydrolysis (digestion) by incubation in an acidic environment 30a 1. Solid-Liquid Separation Decanter 30b 2. Solid-Liquid Separation Separator 35 Washing mixture with wet sieving 40 Solid-Liquid Separation Decanters 50 1. Washing with alcohol 60 Solid-Liquid Separation Decanter 70 2. Washing with alcohol 80 Solid-Liquid Separation Decanter 90 Optional introduction of steam 100 Vacuum drying 110 Preserved citrus fiber

Claims

[1] Use of an activated pectin-containing citrus fiber for producing a product selected from the group comprising consumer goods, animal supplies, hygiene articles, cleaning agents, coating agents, explosives, lubricants, coolants, plastic products, textiles, artificial leather, varnish, ink, paint, building material, composite material, paper, cardboard, adhesive, fertilizer, battery, characterized by that the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber has a water-soluble pectin content of less than 10 wt.% and a yield point I (rotation) in a 2.5 wt.% fiber dispersion in demineralized water of more than 5.5 Pa. [2] Use of an activated pectin-containing citrus fibre in the construction sector, in borehole mining and in agriculture, characterized bythat the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber has a water-soluble pectin content of less than 10 wt.% and a yield point I (rotation) in a 2.5 wt.% fiber dispersion in demineralized water of more than 5.5 Pa. [3] Use according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by that the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber has one or more of the following functions when used: foaming agent, whipping agent, separating agent, flow agent, stabilizer, emulsifier, carrier, filler, texturizer, thickener, gelling agent, firming agent, reinforcing agent, humectant, filter aid and glazing agent. [4] Use according to claims 1 to 3, characterized by that the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber has one or more of the following properties: a yield point II (rotation) in a 2.5 wt.% fibre suspension in demineralised water of more than 1.5 Pa and advantageously of more than 2.0 Pa; b. a yield point II (cross over) in a 2.5 wt.% fibre suspension in demineralised water of more than 1.2 Pa and advantageously of more than 1.5 Pa; c. a yield point I (rotation) in a 2.5 wt.% fibre dispersion in demineralised water of more than 6.0 Pa; d. a yield point I (cross over) in a 2.5 wt.% fiber dispersion in demineralized water of more than 6.0 Pa and advantageously of more than 6.5 Pa; e. a dynamic Weissenberg number in a 2.5 wt.% fibre suspension in demineralised water of more than 7.0, advantageously more than 7.5 and particularly advantageously more than 8.0; f. a dynamic Weissenberg number in a 2.5 wt.% fiber dispersion in demineralized water of more than 6.0, advantageously more than 6.5 and particularly advantageously more than 7.0; g. a strength in a 4% by weight aqueous suspension of at least 150 g, particularly advantageously of at least 220 g; i.e. a viscosity of at least 650 mPas, wherein the plant fiber is dispersed in water as a 2.5 wt.% solution and the viscosity is determined at a shear rate of 50 s -1 measured at 20°C; i. a water binding capacity of more than 22 g / g; j. a moisture content of less than 15% by weight, preferably less than 10% by weight and particularly preferably less than 8% by weight; k. in 1.0 wt.% aqueous solution a pH of 3.1 to 4.75 and preferably 3.4 to 4.2; I. a grain size in which at least 90 wt.% of the particles are smaller than 250 µm, preferably smaller than 200 µm and in particular smaller than 150 µm; m. a brightness value L* > 90, preferably L* > 91 and particularly preferably L* > 92; n. a citrus fibre content of 80 to 95% by weight; o. the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber contains less than 10 wt.%, advantageously less than 8 wt.% and particularly advantageously less than 6 wt.% of water-soluble pectin. [5] Use according to claim 1, 3 or 4, characterized by that the animal supply is animal bedding. [6] Use according to claim 1, 3 or 4, characterized by that the hygiene article is selected from the group consisting of diapers, incontinence articles such as protective pants or incontinence briefs, sanitary pads, tampons, panty liners and soft cups. [7] Use according to claim 1, 3 or 4, characterized bythat the cleaning agent is selected from the group consisting of detergent, gall soap, dishwashing detergent, automatic dishwashing detergent, rinse aid, neutral cleaner, scouring agent, window cleaner, limescale remover, pipe cleaner, brake cleaner, alcohol cleaner, all-purpose cleaner, glass cleaner, sanitary cleaner, toilet cleaner, toilet gel, toilet stone, carpet cleaner, car care products, oven cleaner, bathroom cleaner and metal cleaning products, oil binders and dust binders (anti-dust). [8] Use according to claim 1, 3 or 4, characterized by that the coating agent is selected from the group consisting of antistatic coating, oleophobic coating and anti-block coating. [9] Use according to claim 1, 3 or 4, characterized by that the explosive is a gelatinous explosive. [10] Use according to claim 1, 3 or 4, characterized bythat the lubricant is selected from the group consisting of liquid lubricants, such as lubricating oil and cooling lubricant, lubricating grease and solid lubricant. [11] Use according to claim 1, 3 or 4, characterized by that the plastic product is a citrus fiber reinforced plastic or a wood-plastic composite (WPC). [12] Use according to claim 1, 3 or 4, characterized by that the varnish is selected from the group consisting of alkyd resin varnish, oil varnish, cellulose nitrate varnish, bitumen varnish, tar-containing varnish, phenolic resin varnish, urea resin varnish, melamine resin varnish, polyester varnish, epoxy resin varnish, polyurethane resin varnish, acrylic varnish and powder varnish. [13] Use according to claim 1, 3 or 4, characterized by that the paint is selected from the group consisting of glaze, oil paint, emulsion paint, lime paint, silicate paint and liquid plaster. [14] Use according to claim 1, 3 or 4, characterized bythat the building material is selected from the group consisting of construction foam, insulation material, concrete, screed, mortar, cement, chemical bonded dowels, chemical bonded anchors, asphalt and whisper asphalt. [15] Use according to claim 1, 3 or 4, characterized by that the adhesive is selected from the group consisting of dispersion adhesive, hot melt adhesive, plastisol, cyanoacrylate adhesive, methyl methacrylate adhesive, unsaturated polyester adhesive, epoxy adhesive, polyurethane adhesive, silicones, phenolic resin adhesive, polyimide adhesive, polysulfide adhesive, bismaleimide adhesive, adhesive based on silane-modified polymers, silicone adhesive, paste. [16] Use according to claim 1, 3 or 4, characterized by that the fertilizer is a binding agent for fertilizer cones. [17] Use according to claim 1, 3 or 4, characterized bythat the battery is selected from the group consisting of primary cell, accumulator, and solid-state cell. [18] Use according to claims 2 to 4, characterized by that the use in the construction sector includes the use in road and path construction, masonry construction, concrete construction and reinforced concrete construction. [19] Use according to claims 2 to 4, characterized by that the use in borehole mining includes the use as an additive to a drilling mud or frac fluid. [20] Use according to claims 2 to 4, characterized by that the use in the agricultural sector includes the use in fertilizers, humectants, soil improvers, plant substrates, flower pots and substrate extrudate compresses. [21] Product selected from the group comprising consumer goods, animal supplies, hygiene articles, cleaning agents, coating agents, explosives, lubricants, coolants, plastic products, textiles, artificial leather, varnish, ink, paint, building material, composite material, paper, cardboard, adhesive, fertilizer, battery, characterized by that it comprises the activated pectin-containing citrus fiber according to claim 1 or 4. [22] Product according to claim 21, characterized by that the proportion of activated pectin-containing citrus fiber is between 0.05 wt.% and 90 wt.%, preferably between 0.1 and 50 wt.%, particularly preferably between 0.1 and 25 wt.% and especially preferably between 0.5 and 10 wt.%.

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